7 Simple Tips to Prevent Cooked Food from Spoiling in Summer!

With summer in full swing, it's time to talk about something crucial: keeping our cooked food fresh and tasty despite the scorching heat. There's nothing worse than spending time and effort whipping up a mouthwatering meal, only to have it go bad before you get the chance to enjoy it. Nobody wants to deal with spoiled dishes or stomach aches from eating food that's gone bad right? So, here are three simple tips to ensure that your cooked food stays fresh and tasty.

 7 Simple Tips to Preve`nt Cooked Food from Spoiling in Summer

1) Proper Storage: 

It's essential to store your cooked food properly to prevent it from going bad. Invest in airtight containers or zip-lock bags to seal in the freshness. Make sure your containers are clean and dry before transferring food into them. Avoid using containers that are too big for the amount of food you're storing, as excess air can promote bacterial growth. And remember, always store cooked food in the fridge within two hours of cooking to minimise the risk of spoilage.

2) Rapid Cooling: 

One of the biggest culprits behind food spoilage in the summer is inadequate cooling. When food cools down slowly, bacteria have a field day multiplying and wreaking havoc on your meal. To prevent this, practise rapid cooling techniques. Divide large batches of food into smaller portions before refrigerating them, as smaller portions cool down faster. 

You can also place hot food containers in an ice bath or use shallow pans to spread the food out, allowing it to cool more quickly. Just remember not to leave food out at room temperature for too long before cooling it down—it's a recipe for disaster!

3) Practice FIFO:

You might be wondering, "What is FIFO?" Well, it's not some complicated cooking technique – it's actually super simple. FIFO stands for "First In, First Out." It's a rule that means you should use up the oldest food in your fridge or pantry before diving into the new stuff. 

So, next time you're reaching for that leftover pasta salad, make sure you check the date on it first. By following FIFO, you'll avoid letting food sit around for too long and potentially spoiling.

4) Be Mindful of Cross-Contamination:

Cross-contamination might sound like a big, scary term, but it's easy to prevent once you know what it is. Basically, it's when bacteria from one food item spread to another, making both of them unsafe to eat. To avoid this, make sure you use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat, poultry, and seafood. 

Make sure to wash your hands and clean surfaces well after touching them. Trust me, nobody wants to deal with a case of food poisoning during the summer festivities.

5) Opt for Preservative-Free Options:

In the summertime, it's best to opt for preservative-free options whenever possible. Why? Because preservatives can alter the taste and texture of food, especially when exposed to heat. Plus, they're not always the healthiest choice. Instead, choose fresh ingredients and cook smaller batches of food that you can consume within a couple of days. This way, you'll minimise the risk of spoilage and enjoy meals that are both delicious and nutritious!

6) Keep Those Hands Clean:

It might seem obvious, but washing your hands thoroughly before handling any food is crucial, especially in the summer months. The heat can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, and the last thing you want is to introduce any unwanted guests to your meal. 

So, before you start cooking or serving up your delicious creations, take a quick trip to the sink and give those hands a good scrub with soap and water. It's a small step that can make a big difference in keeping your food safe to eat.

7) Mind Your Spices:

Did you know spices can lose their flavour over time, especially in hot weather? To keep them fresh, store them in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. And remember to give them a sniff occasionally. If they don't smell strong anymore, it's probably time to get new ones.

As we enjoy summer, let's remember to keep our food safe so we can enjoy it without worries. These tips will help you keep your cooked food fresh and tasty. And don't forget to spread the word – share these tips with your friends and family, because everyone deserves to enjoy summer's bounty without the worry of food going bad.